Welcome Reception Summary

 The SVA conference is open. We had a great reception last night at the American Legion post 8. We have groups from all over the country including a handful of walk ins including folks from Delaware, American University, and a gentleman all the way from Texas. 

 The reception opened up strong with some words from Jon Rowan, president of Vietnam Veterans of America. He was followed by long time SVA supporter and VetJobs.com owner Ted Daywalt. IAVA and the VFW were well represented by Eric Hilleman and Patrick Campbell who attended, but did not speak. We are all  looking forward to the legislative brief from Eric today. 

 Following Ted Daywalt, Randy Plunket gave a few words before Anthony Allman (VP SVA) introduced representative Ginnie Brown-Waite (R-FL). Representative Brown-Waite gave some remarks and was presented with an SVA plaque by Anthony for her good work supporting the GI Bill for the 21st century. She was followed by representative Harry Mitchell (D-AZ). Representative Mitchell gave some remarks about his decades of experience as a teacher and the importance of education. He was also presented with a plaque for his strong support of the GI Bill and the Financial Aid Fairness Act. 

 The proceedings closed around eight.